Chicago Children's Museum collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation, which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. Volunteers from the SBB Research Group Foundation partnered with Chicago Children's Museum at its Navy Pier location to assist staff during a busy Memorial Day weekend. Chicago Children's Museum advances learning through play and provides engaging educational experiences for children and families. Volunteers supported the museum by interacting with guests, assisting within exhibits, and helping in the art and tinkering studios by preparing materials and facilitating activities. “Volunteering at the museum was a rewarding experience for our team,” said Jordan Dubnow, a volunteer with the SBBRG Foundation. “We enjoyed helping children and families engage with the exhibits and activities throughout the day. It was especially meaningful to contribute to an organization that makes learning accessible and enjoyable for so many members of the community.” The volunteer effort helped extend the museum staff’s reach during one of its busiest weekends of the year and likely impacted between 100 and 150 guests. Team members worked across multiple areas of the museum to maximize their assistance, helping children and their families enjoy hands-on educational experiences while reinforcing the museum’s mission of inspiring learning through play. Funding associated with the initiative will help support the museum’s general operating budget as it continues to navigate financial pressures and maintain access to its programs and exhibits. To learn more about Chicago Children's Museum and its mission, please visit Chicago Children's Museum. This story can be found on Business Wire

Foundation for Hearing and Speech Resources (FHSR) collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation, which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. Volunteers gathered to prepare book distribution packets for families FHSR supports. FHSR is dedicated to supporting children with hearing challenges and their families through programs and resources that promote communication, inclusion, and self-confidence. During the event, volunteers placed stickers in books, wrote personalized notes, and assembled bags that will be distributed to families participating in the organization’s programs. “Watching my colleagues take such care in preparing the packets and notes was incredibly meaningful,” said Jenny Cizner, a volunteer with the SBBRG Foundation. “They truly understood how impactful these books can be for children and families. Seeing everyone approach the project with such thoughtfulness and compassion was heartwarming.” The book distribution program is an important initiative for FHSR and supports families of children with hearing differences. By providing books that feature relatable characters and experiences, the program helps children see themselves represented in the stories they read, encouraging confidence and a positive sense of identity. Additional funding will help advance FHSR’s other programs and services that benefit children and families throughout the year. To learn more about Foundation for Speech and Hearing Resources and its mission, please visit Foundation for Speech and Hearing Resources website. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

Boston Dance Alliance collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation, which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. Volunteers participated in the Cambridge Dance Company Informal Showcase at Mass Motion in Allston, Massachusetts. The showcase provided an opportunity for dancers to share the work they had developed over the previous eight months while engaging audience members through demonstrations, discussions, and interactive educational experiences designed to deepen appreciation for the art of dance. "Creating opportunities for audiences to connect with dance beyond the performance itself is incredibly rewarding," said Lauren Pajer, a volunteer with the SBBRG Foundation. "It was especially meaningful to see audience members engage with the creative process, ask thoughtful questions, and share their excitement about dance. Moments like those help strengthen the connection between artists and the community." This year's showcase introduced a live demonstration showing how dancers learn and refine choreography in real time, giving attendees a unique behind-the-scenes look at the artistic process. The event also generated strong audience participation, particularly among younger attendees who were actively engaged in the question-and-answer session. Funding associated with the initiative will help offset rehearsal space expenses, costume costs, and venue rental fees for the company's larger annual showcase, supporting the continued growth of the organization and its programming. To learn more about Boston Dance Alliance and its mission, please visit the Boston Dance Alliance and Cambridge Dance Company website. This story can be found on Access Newswire

The SBB Research Group Foundation recognizes three Illinois-area charities as the June 2026 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofits (in alphabetical order):  Future Now Learning (FNL) (St. Charles, IL) is dedicated to making technology education accessible to all. Through hands-on programs focused on artificial intelligence and other STEM fields, the organization helps youth and adult learners develop the skills needed to thrive in an evolving digital world. Humble Design Chicago (Chicago, IL) helps individuals and families in the Chicago area create comfortable, dignified homes after experiencing homelessness. Through essential furnishings and community support, the organization helps clients build a fresh start and a brighter future. Shining Abilities (Lake Villa, IL) partners with individuals with developmental disabilities in Lake and McHenry Counties, helping them build confidence, develop practical life and workplace skills, and foster meaningful social connections. The Foundation encourages any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to apply for a grant at sbbrg.org/apply-for-grant. Donations are awarded to different organizations monthly. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

No Shame On U received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation, which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. No Shame On U, based in Chicago, IL, is dedicated to transforming the way communities understand and talk about mental health. Centered on education and empowerment, the organization works alongside young people, as well as the adults, educators, and caregivers who support them, to build the awareness and skills needed to recognize, discuss, and respond to mental health challenges. Through evidence-based programs and the guidance of trained facilitators, No Shame On U creates spaces where open, honest conversations about mental health can take place. Its work focuses on dismantling stigma by nurturing environments rooted in empathy, understanding, and shared language. At the core of its mission is the belief that mental health awareness and early support are essential for every young person's overall well-being. The organization responds to the widespread need for accessible mental health education by equipping communities with practical tools and meaningful dialogue. All programming is designed to be inclusive and approachable, ensuring that young people and those who care for them feel seen, supported, and informed. "When I am doing presentations and working with community members, I will often ask the group to raise their hand if they themselves, or someone they know, has ever struggled with mental health, and usually the whole room raises their hand. That is why we are here, to help disarm the stigma," said Wendy Singer. No Shame On U's programming reaches students, families, and school communities alike. By combining peer-driven education with professional expertise, the organization fosters environments where mental health is treated with the same openness and care as physical health, reducing isolation and encouraging connection. By prioritizing both awareness and action, No Shame On U helps young people and the communities around them move forward with greater confidence, compassion, and understanding. Its work reflects a commitment to building a world where no one feels alone in their mental health journey. "No Shame On U is doing vital work to shift the culture around mental health, especially for young people, and we are proud to support their efforts to build community through education, connection, and the power of open conversation," said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

The Center for Enriched Living collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation, which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. The Center for Enriched Living (CEL) provides programs and services that empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead meaningful, connected lives. During a recent volunteer event held in Lincolnshire, Illinois, Foundation volunteers supported one of CEL’s programs, assisting with activities designed to foster social engagement, creativity, and personal growth. “Spending time at CEL is always a meaningful experience—the energy, creativity, and sense of community truly stand out,” said Ashley Koziol, a volunteer from the SBB Research Group Foundation. “It’s incredible to see how the programs create opportunities for connection and confidence, and how each member is encouraged to participate, express themselves, and feel a strong sense of belonging.” The support from volunteers allowed CEL to enhance its programming while reinforcing its mission of building a community where individuals of all abilities are valued and included. By contributing their time and energy, volunteers helped create opportunities for meaningful interaction and lasting impact for CEL members. To learn more about The Center for Enriched Living, please visit their website at www.experiencecel.org This story can be found on Business Wire

The SBB Research Group Foundation recognizes three Illinois-area charities as the May 2026 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofits (in alphabetical order):  Dream Academy Foundation (DAF) (Chicago, IL) offers a series of programs that work collectively to propel youth into the next phase of their lives. Through these efforts, DAF empowers today’s youth to fulfill their dreams for tomorrow. No Shame On U (Chicago, IL) is dedicated to reshaping attitudes about mental health, elevating conversations, and reducing stigma. They support young people, as well as those who support them, with the tools to understand, discuss, and respond to mental health challenges. Teaching Therapy (Elgin, IL) provides preventative mental health services to individuals of all ages in the western suburbs of the greater Chicagoland area, equipping people with the tools to lead balanced, healthy lives. The Foundation encourages any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to apply for a grant at sbbrg.org/apply-for-grant. Donations are awarded to different organizations monthly. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

Cancer Wellness Center received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation, which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. Cancer Wellness Center, based in Northbrook, IL, is strengthening how families navigate the complexities of a cancer diagnosis. Centered on whole-person care, the organization brings together children and parents facing profound challenges to find pathways toward healing and resilience. Through expert guidance and evidence-based programs, the Center creates spaces where families connect with others who understand the complex emotional journey of treatment. Its work focuses on reducing isolation by fostering relationships rooted in empathy and mutual respect. At the core of its mission is the belief that psychosocial support for the entire family is as vital as medical intervention. The organization responds to the long-term impacts of cancer by offering opportunities to share experiences and learn from experts. All services are provided free of charge, ensuring every family has access to a welcoming community and professional resources. “We understand as a community that cancer impacts the whole family; we try hard to create an oasis—a safe space for children to process all their fears, wonders, and worries,” said Elyssa Siegel, Child Life Specialist. “A Child Life Specialist helps provide coping strategies, anxiety-reducing strategies, and developmentally appropriate education.” The Center’s dedicated Children and Families program provides specialized support tailored to the unique needs of children. By providing therapeutic activities and peer networks, the program promotes stability and well-being for both children and caregivers during an incredibly difficult time. By prioritizing expert care and lived experience, the Cancer Wellness Center helps families build confidence and move forward at their own pace. Its work reflects a commitment to supporting recovery through understanding, access, and connection. “The Cancer Wellness Center creates meaningful connections for individuals navigating the impact of a cancer diagnosis, and we are proud to support their efforts to build community through peer connection and shared understanding,” said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

The SBB Research Group Foundation named Daliya Rizvi a recipient of its STEM scholarship. The $2,500 award empowers students to create value for society by pursuing higher learning through interdisciplinary combinations of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Daliya Rizvi, a Duke University junior, studies immune-oncology: ethics and applications. Rizvi held an internship at the National Cancer Institute, won the AGA Young Guts Scholars Award, and became an American Heart Association fellow. “Daliya is such a driven young person. It’s exciting to imagine where she might go next – SBBRG Foundation will be with her the whole way,” said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. For eligibility criteria and more information on the Foundation’s STEM scholarship, please visit www.sbbscholarship.org. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

The SBB Research Group Foundation invited two prior grant recipients to share updates on their critical efforts to support the local community. The Foundation awarded additional grants to further each of the respective organization’s missions (organizations listed alphabetically): Math Circles of Chicago (Chicago, IL) sparks curiosity and confidence in students by offering engaging and challenging math experiences. Through free, high-quality programs led by dedicated educators, the organization creates inclusive spaces where students of all backgrounds can explore math, strengthen problem-solving skills, and develop a lasting love of learning. With its grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation, Math Circles of Chicago expanded its after-school programming in lower income schools throughout Chicago. The funding supported 56 classrooms during the 2025–26 school year, an increase of thirteen classrooms compared to the previous year, allowing more students to access enriching math opportunities. The Brown House Experience (Chicago, IL) is dedicated to fostering the positive development of youth by providing hands-on learning experiences in the arts, mental and physical wellness, skilled trades, and entrepreneurship. The organization works to empower young people by supporting academic success, strengthening social skills, and promoting emotional well-being. With support from the SBB Research Group Foundation, The Brown House Experience enhanced its STEAM & Trades Academy by purchasing materials, expanding participation, and launching additional academies. The grant also supported new offerings, including CPR and Stop the Bleed certification, along with programs in drone operation, hair care, and construction. “These organizations are creating meaningful opportunities and removing barriers for individuals and families in our community. We’re proud to continue supporting their work and to help extend the reach and impact of programs that empower people through education, skill‑building, and access,” said co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation, Matt Aven. The Foundation encourages any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to apply for a grant at sbbrg.org/apply-for-grant. Donations are awarded to different organizations monthly. This story can be found on Business Wire.